Patentable/Patents/US-10545002
US-10545002

Method for monitoring a heat exchanger unit

PublishedJanuary 28, 2020
Assigneenot available in USPTO data we have
Inventorsnot available in USPTO data we have
Technical Abstract

Embodiments of the disclosure pertain to a method for monitoring a heat exchanger unit that may include the steps of: coupling the heat exchanger unit with a heat generating device; associating a monitoring module with an airflow side of the heat exchanger unit; operating the monitoring module whereby a microcontroller performs tasks related to providing an indication; and taking an action based on the indication. The monitoring module includes an at least one sensor proximate to the airflow side; a logic circuit in operable communication with the at least one sensor, and further comprising the microcontroller.

Patent Claims
20 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 1

Original Legal Text

1. A method for monitoring a heat exchanger unit, the method comprising: coupling the heat exchanger unit with a heat generating device; associating a monitoring module with an airflow side of the heat exchanger unit, the monitoring module comprising: a mounting frame; a cover panel coupled to the mounting frame and having a front side and a back side, the front side facing away from the heat exchanger unit; a sensor proximate to the airflow side and mounted to the monitoring module, the sensor having a rotating member; a logic circuit in operable communication with the sensor, and further comprising: a microcontroller configured with computer instructions for performing the tasks of: i) acquiring a set of data from the sensor; ii) sampling the set of data over a predetermined period of time, and computing an average and a standard deviation; iii) comparing the standard deviation with predetermined data stored on a data storage; iv) determining whether the set of data is acceptable within a defined parameter; v) determining whether a first lookup table comprising a set of lookup data has been completed, and creating the first lookup table using an averaging method if the first lookup table comprising a set of lookup data has not been completed; vi) comparing the set of data to the set of lookup data; and vii) providing an indication based on a result of the comparing the set of data to the set of lookup data; and drawing ambient air through the heat exchanger unit with a fan to change a temperature of at least one service fluid; operating the monitoring module whereby the microcontroller performs tasks i)-vii); and taking an action based on the indication.

Plain English Translation

The method involves monitoring a heat exchanger unit used with a heat-generating device to ensure proper airflow and thermal performance. The system includes a monitoring module mounted on the airflow side of the heat exchanger, featuring a sensor with a rotating member to detect airflow characteristics. The sensor is connected to a logic circuit containing a microcontroller that processes the sensor data. The microcontroller acquires sensor data over a set period, calculates statistical measures like average and standard deviation, and compares these values against predefined thresholds stored in memory. If a lookup table of reference data does not exist, the microcontroller generates one using an averaging method. The sensor data is then compared to this lookup table to assess performance. If deviations are detected, the system provides an indication, which can trigger corrective actions such as maintenance or adjustments. The heat exchanger operates by drawing ambient air through the unit with a fan to regulate the temperature of a service fluid, while the monitoring module continuously evaluates airflow conditions to ensure optimal operation. This approach helps detect blockages, inefficiencies, or other issues in real time, improving reliability and performance.

Claim 2

Original Legal Text

2. The method for monitoring the heat exchanger unit of claim 1 , wherein the microcontroller receives power at least partially from the sensor.

Plain English Translation

A method for monitoring a heat exchanger unit involves using a microcontroller to analyze data from a sensor integrated into the heat exchanger. The sensor detects operational parameters such as temperature, pressure, or flow rate, and the microcontroller processes this data to assess the heat exchanger's performance. The microcontroller can also receive power at least partially from the sensor, reducing the need for an external power source. This self-powered monitoring system enables continuous and efficient tracking of the heat exchanger's condition, allowing for early detection of faults or inefficiencies. The method may include transmitting the collected data to a remote monitoring system for further analysis or maintenance scheduling. By integrating the sensor and microcontroller, the system provides real-time insights into the heat exchanger's operation, improving reliability and reducing downtime. The power-sharing feature ensures the monitoring system remains functional even in environments where external power may be limited or unreliable. This approach is particularly useful in industrial, HVAC, or automotive applications where heat exchanger performance is critical.

Claim 3

Original Legal Text

3. The method for monitoring the heat exchanger unit of claim 1 , wherein the indication is communicated to an end user by way of at least one of: a text message, an email, an audio signal, a display, a visual indicator, or one or more combinations thereof.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to monitoring systems for heat exchanger units, addressing the need for real-time alerts to end users when operational issues arise. The system detects anomalies in the heat exchanger unit, such as temperature deviations or pressure irregularities, and generates an indication of these issues. The indication is then communicated to the end user through multiple output methods, including text messages, emails, audio signals, displays, or visual indicators. These communication channels ensure that the user is promptly notified of any problems, allowing for timely intervention. The system may also incorporate additional monitoring features, such as sensors to measure temperature, pressure, or flow rates, and a controller to analyze the sensor data and trigger alerts based on predefined thresholds. By providing flexible and immediate notifications, the invention enhances the reliability and maintenance efficiency of heat exchanger units in various applications, such as HVAC systems, industrial processes, or refrigeration systems.

Claim 4

Original Legal Text

4. The method for monitoring the heat exchanger unit of claim 3 , wherein the indication is related to an amount of fouling present within the airflow side.

Plain English Translation

A method for monitoring a heat exchanger unit focuses on detecting fouling accumulation on the airflow side of the heat exchanger. Fouling refers to the buildup of deposits such as dust, dirt, or other contaminants that reduce heat transfer efficiency and airflow performance. The method involves analyzing an indication related to the amount of fouling present within the airflow side of the heat exchanger. This indication could be derived from measurements such as pressure drop across the heat exchanger, temperature differentials, airflow rate, or other relevant parameters. By continuously or periodically monitoring these indicators, the method provides insights into the fouling level, allowing for timely maintenance or cleaning to restore optimal performance. The method is particularly useful in industrial, HVAC, or refrigeration systems where fouling can lead to energy inefficiencies and system degradation. The approach ensures early detection of fouling, preventing potential system failures and reducing operational costs.

Claim 5

Original Legal Text

5. The method for monitoring the heat exchanger unit of claim 1 , wherein the sensor comprises a plurality of sensors, and each of the plurality of sensors are in operable communication with the microcontroller, and wherein the indication pertains to an amount of fouling associated with the airflow side of the heat exchanger unit.

Plain English Translation

A method for monitoring a heat exchanger unit involves using multiple sensors to detect fouling on the airflow side of the heat exchanger. The sensors are in communication with a microcontroller, which processes the sensor data to determine the extent of fouling. Fouling refers to the accumulation of deposits on the heat exchanger surfaces, which reduces efficiency by impeding airflow and heat transfer. The method helps identify when cleaning or maintenance is needed to restore optimal performance. The sensors may include temperature, pressure, or flow rate sensors that detect changes indicative of fouling. The microcontroller analyzes the sensor data to generate an indication of fouling severity, allowing for timely intervention. This approach improves heat exchanger efficiency and reduces energy consumption by ensuring proper maintenance. The method is particularly useful in industrial, HVAC, or automotive applications where heat exchanger performance directly impacts system efficiency. By continuously monitoring fouling, the system can prevent performance degradation and extend the lifespan of the heat exchanger.

Claim 6

Original Legal Text

6. The method for monitoring the heat exchanger unit of claim 1 , wherein the monitoring module further comprises each of a solid data storage, a Wi-Fi module, a GSM module, and a CAN-Bus module being disposed within a controller housing and in operable communication with the microcontroller, and wherein the microcontroller is provided with additional computer instructions for communicating with one or more of the solid data storage, the Wi-Fi module, the GSM module, and the CAN-Bus module.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for monitoring a heat exchanger unit, specifically addressing the need for real-time data collection, remote communication, and integration with industrial control systems. The system includes a monitoring module with a microcontroller that interfaces with various sensors to measure operational parameters such as temperature, pressure, and flow rates within the heat exchanger. The monitoring module is enhanced with additional components housed within a controller enclosure: solid-state data storage for local logging, a Wi-Fi module for wireless local area network communication, a GSM module for cellular network connectivity, and a CAN-Bus module for interfacing with industrial control systems. The microcontroller executes instructions to manage data acquisition from sensors, process the data, and transmit it via the communication modules. The Wi-Fi module enables local network communication, the GSM module allows remote monitoring via cellular networks, and the CAN-Bus module facilitates integration with existing industrial automation systems. This setup ensures continuous monitoring, remote access, and seamless data exchange, improving maintenance efficiency and operational reliability of heat exchanger systems.

Claim 7

Original Legal Text

7. The method for monitoring the heat exchanger unit of claim 1 , wherein the at least one service fluid comprises one or more of lube oil, hydraulic fluid, fuel, charge air, transmission fluid, jacket water, or engine cooler.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to monitoring heat exchanger units in industrial or vehicular systems, particularly those involving fluid cooling or heat transfer. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and accurate monitoring of heat exchanger performance to detect issues such as fouling, leaks, or inefficiencies that can lead to system failures or reduced efficiency. The method involves monitoring a heat exchanger unit by analyzing at least one service fluid that interacts with the heat exchanger. The service fluid can include lube oil, hydraulic fluid, fuel, charge air, transmission fluid, jacket water, or engine cooler. By tracking properties such as temperature, pressure, flow rate, or contamination levels of these fluids, the system can identify deviations from expected performance, indicating potential problems in the heat exchanger. This allows for early detection and preventive maintenance, improving system reliability and efficiency. The monitoring may involve sensors placed at key points in the fluid pathways to collect real-time data, which is then processed to assess heat exchanger health. The approach is applicable to various industries, including automotive, industrial machinery, and power generation, where heat exchangers play a critical role in thermal management.

Claim 8

Original Legal Text

8. The method for monitoring the heat exchanger unit of claim 7 , wherein the heat generation device is a diesel engine, and wherein the heat exchanger unit comprises four sides, each side of the four sides having a respective cooler mounted to a frame.

Plain English Translation

Technical Summary: This invention relates to monitoring a heat exchanger unit used with a diesel engine. The system addresses the need to efficiently manage and monitor heat dissipation in industrial or vehicular applications where diesel engines generate significant heat. The heat exchanger unit consists of four sides, each equipped with a cooler mounted to a frame. The coolers are designed to dissipate heat generated by the diesel engine, ensuring optimal operating temperatures and preventing overheating. The monitoring method involves tracking the performance of each cooler to detect inefficiencies, blockages, or failures that could compromise cooling efficiency. By continuously assessing the heat exchanger unit's operation, the system enables early detection of issues, allowing for preventive maintenance and reducing downtime. The design ensures balanced cooling across all sides, improving overall system reliability and longevity. This approach is particularly useful in environments where diesel engines operate under high thermal loads, such as heavy machinery, power generation, or transportation systems. The invention enhances thermal management by integrating real-time monitoring with a structured heat exchanger configuration, ensuring consistent and effective cooling performance.

Claim 9

Original Legal Text

9. A method for monitoring a heat exchanger unit, the method comprising: coupling the heat exchanger unit in fluid communication with a motor; associating a monitoring module with an airflow side of the heat exchanger unit, the monitoring module comprising: a mounting frame; a cover panel coupled to the mounting frame and having a front side and a back side, the front side facing away from the heat exchanger unit; a plurality of sensors mounted to the monitoring module, each of the plurality of sensors having a rotating member with a plurality of blades extending from each of the rotating members; and a logic circuit in operable communication with the plurality of sensors, and further comprising: a microcontroller operable with computer instructions for performing the tasks of: i) acquiring a set of data from at least one of the plurality of sensors; ii) sampling the set of data over a predetermined period of time; iii) determining whether the set of data is acceptable within a defined parameter; iv) determining whether a first lookup table comprising a set of lookup data has been completed; v) comparing the set of data to the set of lookup data; and vi) providing an indication based on a result of the comparing the set of data to the set of lookup data; and drawing ambient air through the heat exchanger unit with a fan to change a temperature of at least one service fluid; initiating operation of the monitoring module whereby the microcontroller performs tasks i)-vi); and based on the indication, performing a cleaning action on the heat exchanger unit.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to monitoring and maintaining heat exchanger units, particularly for detecting and addressing fouling or inefficiencies in heat transfer performance. Heat exchangers, such as those used in HVAC systems or industrial processes, can accumulate dirt, debris, or scale over time, reducing their efficiency. The invention provides a method to monitor the heat exchanger's condition and trigger cleaning actions when necessary. The method involves coupling a heat exchanger unit to a motor and associating a monitoring module with the airflow side of the unit. The monitoring module includes a mounting frame, a cover panel, multiple sensors, and a logic circuit. Each sensor has a rotating member with blades to measure airflow or other parameters. A microcontroller within the logic circuit acquires data from the sensors, samples it over time, and checks if the data falls within acceptable parameters. The microcontroller then compares the data to a predefined lookup table containing reference values. If the comparison indicates a deviation, the system provides an indication (e.g., an alert or signal) and initiates a cleaning action, such as activating a cleaning mechanism or notifying an operator. The system ensures continuous monitoring of the heat exchanger's performance, allowing for timely maintenance to prevent efficiency losses. The method is particularly useful in applications where heat exchanger fouling can lead to energy waste or system failures.

Claim 10

Original Legal Text

10. The method for monitoring the heat exchanger unit of claim 9 , the method comprising operating the monitoring module to communicate the indication to an end user by way of at least one of: a text message, an email, an audio signal, a display, a visual indicator, or one or more combinations thereof.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to monitoring systems for heat exchanger units, specifically addressing the need for effective communication of operational status to end users. The system includes a monitoring module that detects and analyzes performance data from the heat exchanger, such as temperature, pressure, or flow rates, to identify potential issues like leaks, blockages, or inefficiencies. The monitoring module processes this data to generate an indication of the heat exchanger's operational state, which may include alerts for maintenance or performance degradation. The method involves transmitting this indication to an end user through multiple communication channels, including text messages, emails, audio signals, displays, or visual indicators, ensuring timely and accessible notifications. The system may also integrate with remote monitoring platforms or user interfaces to provide detailed diagnostics. This approach enhances proactive maintenance, reduces downtime, and improves system reliability by ensuring users are promptly informed of any issues requiring attention. The invention is particularly useful in industrial, HVAC, or refrigeration applications where continuous monitoring and quick response are critical.

Claim 11

Original Legal Text

11. The method for monitoring the heat exchanger unit of claim 10 , wherein the indication is related to an amount of fouling present within the airflow side of the heat exchanger unit.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to monitoring heat exchanger units, specifically detecting fouling on the airflow side. Fouling refers to the accumulation of deposits on heat exchanger surfaces, which reduces efficiency by impeding heat transfer and increasing energy consumption. The method involves analyzing data from sensors to determine the extent of fouling. Sensors may measure parameters such as temperature, pressure, or airflow resistance, which change as fouling progresses. The system processes this data to generate an indication of fouling severity, allowing for timely maintenance or cleaning. The method may also compare current sensor readings against baseline values or historical data to assess fouling progression. By continuously monitoring these parameters, the system can detect early signs of fouling before significant efficiency losses occur. This proactive approach helps maintain optimal heat exchanger performance, reducing energy costs and preventing equipment damage. The invention is applicable in HVAC systems, industrial processes, and other applications where heat exchangers are used.

Claim 12

Original Legal Text

12. The method for monitoring the heat exchanger unit of claim 9 , wherein the monitoring module further comprises each of a solid data storage, a Wi-Fi module, a GSM module, and a CAN-Bus module being disposed within a controller housing and in operable communication with the microcontroller, and wherein the microcontroller is provided with additional computer instructions for communicating with one or more of the solid data storage, the Wi-Fi module, the GSM module, and the CAN-Bus module.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for monitoring a heat exchanger unit, addressing the need for real-time data collection, remote communication, and integration with industrial control systems. The system includes a monitoring module with a microcontroller that executes computer instructions to collect and process data from sensors measuring temperature, pressure, and flow rates within the heat exchanger. The microcontroller analyzes this data to detect anomalies, such as leaks or blockages, and generates alerts when thresholds are exceeded. The monitoring module is housed within a controller enclosure and includes multiple communication interfaces: a solid-state data storage for local logging, a Wi-Fi module for wireless local area network connectivity, a GSM module for cellular communication, and a CAN-Bus module for interfacing with industrial control systems. These components are in operable communication with the microcontroller, enabling the system to transmit data remotely, store logs locally, and integrate with existing automation networks. The microcontroller executes additional instructions to manage data transmission, storage, and protocol conversion between the different communication interfaces, ensuring seamless operation across diverse network environments. This design enhances diagnostic capabilities, reduces downtime, and supports predictive maintenance in industrial heat exchanger applications.

Claim 13

Original Legal Text

13. The method for monitoring the heat exchanger unit of claim 12 , wherein the at least one service fluid comprises one or more of lube oil, hydraulic fluid, fuel, charge air, transmission fluid, jacket water, or engine cooler; and the drawing the ambient air through the heat exchanger unit with the fan comprises drawing the ambient air through the cover panel to rotate said each of the rotating members.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to monitoring a heat exchanger unit used in industrial or vehicular systems, particularly for cooling or heating service fluids such as lube oil, hydraulic fluid, fuel, charge air, transmission fluid, jacket water, or engine cooler. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently managing heat exchange while ensuring proper airflow and operational monitoring. The heat exchanger unit includes a housing with a cover panel and multiple rotating members, such as fans or impellers, that facilitate airflow. A fan draws ambient air through the heat exchanger unit, passing it through the cover panel to rotate the rotating members. This airflow helps regulate the temperature of the service fluids circulating within the unit. The monitoring method involves tracking the performance of the heat exchanger by analyzing the airflow, rotational speed of the rotating members, or temperature changes in the service fluids. Sensors may be used to detect anomalies, such as blockages or inefficiencies, ensuring optimal heat exchange and preventing overheating or system failures. The system is designed to be adaptable to various industrial or vehicular applications where precise thermal management is critical.

Claim 14

Original Legal Text

14. The method for monitoring the heat exchanger unit of claim 13 , wherein the heat generation device is a diesel engine, and wherein the heat exchanger unit comprises four sides, each side of the four sides having a respective cooler mounted to a frame.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to monitoring a heat exchanger unit used with a diesel engine. The heat exchanger unit includes a frame with four sides, each side having a cooler mounted to it. The system monitors the performance and condition of the heat exchanger unit to ensure efficient heat dissipation from the diesel engine. The monitoring process involves detecting and analyzing data from sensors placed on the coolers to assess their operational status, identify potential failures, and optimize cooling efficiency. The system may also track environmental conditions, such as ambient temperature and airflow, to adjust cooling operations dynamically. By continuously monitoring the heat exchanger unit, the invention aims to prevent overheating, reduce maintenance costs, and extend the lifespan of the diesel engine. The invention is particularly useful in industrial and automotive applications where reliable cooling is critical for engine performance and longevity.

Claim 15

Original Legal Text

15. A method for monitoring a heat exchanger unit, the method comprising: coupling the heat exchanger unit in fluid communication with a heat generating device; associating a monitoring module with an airflow side of the heat exchanger unit, the monitoring module comprising: a mounting frame; a cover panel coupled to the mounting frame and having a front side and a back side, the front side facing away from the heat exchanger unit; a plurality of sensors mounted to the monitoring module, at least one of the sensors has a rotating member with a plurality of blades extending from the rotating member; a logic circuit in operable communication with the plurality of sensors, and further comprising: a microcontroller operable with computer instructions for performing the tasks of: i) acquiring a set of data from at least one of the plurality of sensors; ii) sampling the set of data over a predetermined period of time; iii) determining whether the set of data is acceptable within a defined parameter; iv) determining whether a first lookup table comprising a set of lookup data has been completed; v) establishing the first lookup table; vi) comparing the set of data to the set of lookup data; and vii) providing an indication based on a result of the comparing the set of data to the set of lookup data; and drawing ambient air through the heat exchanger unit with a fan to change a temperature of at least one service fluid; initiating operation of the monitoring module whereby the microcontroller performs tasks i)-vii); and based on the indication, performing an action on the heat exchanger unit.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to a system for monitoring the performance of a heat exchanger unit used in conjunction with a heat-generating device. The heat exchanger unit is coupled to the device to regulate fluid temperature, with a monitoring module attached to the airflow side of the unit. The module includes a mounting frame, a cover panel, and multiple sensors, at least one of which has a rotating member with blades to measure airflow or other parameters. A logic circuit with a microcontroller processes sensor data by acquiring, sampling, and evaluating it against predefined parameters. The microcontroller also manages a lookup table of reference data, compares incoming data to this table, and generates an indication based on the comparison. If the data falls outside acceptable ranges, the system triggers an action, such as adjusting the heat exchanger or alerting an operator. The fan draws ambient air through the exchanger to cool or heat the service fluid, while the monitoring module continuously assesses performance to ensure proper operation. This system enhances heat exchanger efficiency and reliability by detecting deviations in real time.

Claim 16

Original Legal Text

16. The method for monitoring the heat exchanger unit of claim 15 , the method comprising receiving the indication by way of at least one of: a text message, an email, an audio signal, a display, a visual indicator, or one or more combinations thereof, wherein the indication is related to an amount of fouling present within the airflow side of the heat exchanger unit.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to monitoring fouling in heat exchanger units, specifically detecting and communicating the presence of fouling on the airflow side of the unit. Fouling refers to the accumulation of deposits on heat exchanger surfaces, which reduces efficiency by impeding heat transfer and airflow. The method involves detecting fouling and generating an indication of its severity, which is then transmitted to a user or system via multiple communication channels. The indication can be received through text messages, emails, audio signals, displays, visual indicators, or combinations thereof. This allows for timely maintenance and prevents performance degradation. The system may include sensors or other detection mechanisms to measure fouling levels, which are then processed to determine the extent of fouling. The communication methods ensure that operators or automated systems are promptly notified, enabling proactive maintenance. The invention addresses the need for efficient fouling detection and real-time monitoring in heat exchangers to maintain optimal performance and energy efficiency.

Claim 17

Original Legal Text

17. The method for monitoring the heat exchanger unit of claim 16 , wherein the monitoring module further comprises each of a solid data storage, a Wi-Fi module, a GSM module, and a CAN-Bus module being disposed within a controller housing and in operable communication with the microcontroller, and wherein the microcontroller is provided with additional computer instructions for communicating with one or more of the solid data storage, the Wi-Fi module, the GSM module, and the CAN-Bus module.

Plain English Translation

A method for monitoring a heat exchanger unit involves a monitoring module integrated with a controller housing. The module includes a solid data storage, a Wi-Fi module, a GSM module, and a CAN-Bus module, all connected to a microcontroller. The microcontroller executes computer instructions to communicate with these components, enabling data storage, wireless communication, and network connectivity. The solid data storage retains monitoring data locally, while the Wi-Fi and GSM modules facilitate remote data transmission and communication. The CAN-Bus module allows integration with vehicle or industrial control systems. This setup enhances real-time monitoring, diagnostics, and remote access to heat exchanger performance, addressing the need for reliable, connected monitoring in industrial or automotive applications. The system ensures data logging, wireless reporting, and seamless integration with existing control networks, improving maintenance efficiency and operational safety.

Claim 18

Original Legal Text

18. The method for monitoring the heat exchanger unit of claim 17 , wherein the at least one service fluid comprises one or more of lube oil, hydraulic fluid, fuel, charge air, transmission fluid, jacket water, or engine cooler; and the drawing the ambient air through the heat exchanger unit with the fan comprises drawing the ambient air through the cover panel to rotate at least one of the rotating members of the at least one of the sensors.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a method for monitoring a heat exchanger unit used in industrial or vehicular systems, particularly for cooling or heating service fluids such as lube oil, hydraulic fluid, fuel, charge air, transmission fluid, jacket water, or engine cooler. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable monitoring of heat exchanger performance to ensure proper cooling or heating of these fluids, which are critical for system operation. The method involves using a heat exchanger unit with at least one sensor that includes rotating members, such as a turbine or impeller, to measure fluid flow or other parameters. Ambient air is drawn through the heat exchanger unit by a fan, and this airflow passes through a cover panel associated with the sensor. The airflow causes the rotating members of the sensor to spin, enabling accurate measurement of fluid properties or system performance. The sensor may detect changes in airflow, temperature, or pressure, providing real-time data for monitoring the heat exchanger's efficiency and detecting potential issues like clogging or leaks. The method ensures continuous and precise monitoring of the heat exchanger unit, improving system reliability and maintenance efficiency. By using ambient air flow to actuate the sensor's rotating members, the system avoids the need for additional mechanical components, reducing complexity and cost. This approach is particularly useful in environments where fluid conditions must be closely regulated, such as in engines, power plants, or industrial machinery.

Claim 19

Original Legal Text

19. The method for monitoring the heat exchanger unit of claim 18 , wherein the heat generation device is a diesel engine, and wherein the heat exchanger unit comprises four sides, each side of the four sides having a respective cooler mounted to a frame.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to monitoring a heat exchanger unit used with a diesel engine. The heat exchanger unit includes four sides, each equipped with a cooler mounted to a frame. The system monitors the heat exchanger unit to detect and address issues such as leaks, blockages, or inefficiencies in heat transfer. The monitoring process involves tracking temperature, pressure, and flow rates across the coolers to ensure optimal performance. Sensors are placed at key points to measure these parameters, and the data is analyzed to identify deviations from expected values. If anomalies are detected, alerts are generated to prompt maintenance or adjustments. The design ensures that the coolers are evenly distributed around the frame, allowing for balanced heat dissipation and efficient cooling of the diesel engine. The monitoring system helps prevent overheating, extends the lifespan of the heat exchanger unit, and improves overall engine efficiency. The invention is particularly useful in industrial or vehicular applications where reliable cooling is critical.

Claim 20

Original Legal Text

20. The method of claim 1 , wherein the drawing the ambient air through the heat exchanger unit with the fan comprises drawing the ambient air through the cover panel to rotate the rotating member.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for cooling electronic devices using ambient air. The problem addressed is the need for efficient heat dissipation in electronic systems, particularly in environments where space is limited or where traditional cooling methods are insufficient. The invention involves a heat exchanger unit that transfers heat from an electronic device to ambient air. A fan draws the ambient air through the heat exchanger unit to facilitate cooling. The fan is integrated with a rotating member that is driven by the airflow, eliminating the need for an external power source. The rotating member is connected to a cover panel, which directs the airflow through the heat exchanger unit. The cover panel may include openings or channels to optimize airflow and ensure efficient heat transfer. The system may also include a housing that encloses the electronic device and the heat exchanger unit, with the fan and rotating member positioned to maximize airflow efficiency. The invention improves cooling performance by leveraging passive airflow mechanisms, reducing energy consumption and mechanical complexity.

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Patent Metadata

Filing Date

May 9, 2017

Publication Date

January 28, 2020

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Method for monitoring a heat exchanger unit